In this paper, our experience with training courses for quality circle moderators is reported. Basic principles of the peer review method in general and the specific model of the topic-oriented quality circle approach in the ambulatory care in Sudbaden is described. Peer review in quality circle groups demands specific participants' skills. Thus, training courses for quality circle leaders have been set up to prepare moderators for their task. Attention is given to the goals and contents of training courses for physicians. Key elements are the supervisory role of the moderator and specific tasks in handling the group dicussions. Evaluation questionnaires after the courses showed that the participants (n = 41) judged the programme very positively.